A high-density plasma hydrogenation method is provided. Generally, the
method comprises: forming a silicon (Si)/oxide stack layer; plasma
oxidizing the Si/oxide stack at a temperature of less than 400.degree.
C., using a high density plasma source, such as an inductively coupled
plasma (ICP) source; introducing an atmosphere including H2 at a system
pressure up to 500 milliTorr; hydrogenating the stack at a temperature of
less than 400 degrees C., using the high density plasma source; and
forming an electrode overlying the oxide. The electrode may be formed
either before or after the hydrogenation. The Si/oxide stack may be
formed in a number of ways. In one aspect, a Si layer is formed, and the
silicon layer is plasma oxidized at a temperature of less than 400
degrees C., using an ICP source. The oxide formation, additional
oxidation, and hydrogenation steps can be conducted in-situ in a common
chamber.